By Law Ibitoye
Former Senator Ayo Arise has successfully concluded his extensive 56-ward tour across five local government areas in Ekiti North Senatorial District, marking a significant step in his build-up to the 2027 National Assembly elections.
The grassroots engagement, which commenced last Wednesday, was rounded off on Tuesday with a grand tour of Oye Local Government Area, his home constituency. The visit covered several wards including Ayegbaju Ward 4, Isan Ward 11, Ayede Ward 9, Itaji Ward 10, Omu-Ijelu, Itapa Osin, Ire Wards 1 and 2, Ilupeju Wards 1 and 2, and Oye Wards 1 and 2.
Addressing supporters across the wards, Arise canvassed support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji in June 20th and 2027 elections. saying the administration’s reforms of Tinubu , though challenging, have been instrumental in stabilizing the country and setting it on the path of long-term growth. He urged residents of Ekiti and Nigerians to remain patient, expressing confidence that the outcomes of the policies would ultimately reposition the nation’s economy.
The former lawmaker also called on constituents to support his return to the Senate as the primary election draws nearer, alongside the re-election of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, citing their commitment to development and good governance.
Senator Arise urged residents not to believe in the kangaroo endorsements being branded by some aspirants who he said were afraid of primaries due to their poor performance and engagement with the grassroots. He said, the party has given a directive for primary where genuine consensus could not be agreed Upon. While assuring party members of his victory at the primary election, Senator Arise said he performed well during his first term and he had cordial engagement with the people at the grassroot.
Reaffirming his ambition, Arise said his decision to seek re-election is driven by genuine concern for the welfare of the people of Ekiti North. He highlighted his achievements during his first tenure in the Senate (2007–2011), particularly the facilitation of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), which he described as a transformative project for the district.
According to him, the presence of the institution has significantly boosted socio-economic activities across host communities. He noted that previously abandoned buildings are now occupied, land values have appreciated, and economic opportunities have expanded for transporters, traders, and artisans due to the influx of students and staff. He added that commercial and social activities, including nightlife, have witnessed remarkable growth.
Arise further outlined other achievements such as the construction of computer centres, infrastructural development, empowerment initiatives, job creation, and educational support programmes, which he said have strengthened his position ahead of the party primaries.
Several political and community leaders who spoke during the tour, including High Chief Bamitale Oguntoyinbo, Chief Akin Ariyo, Hon. Akeredolu Tajudeen, Mrs. Olayemi Ojo, Chief Alonge Samuel, Hon. Lai Folorunso, and Prince Oreoluwa Fabunmi, praised Arise for what they described as quality representation. They urged residents to mobilize support for his ambition in order to sustain development in the district.
The tour climaxed in Oye Ekiti with a carnival-like reception, as residents and commercial motorcycle operators turned out in large numbers to celebrate the former senator. Amid drumming, singing, and dancing, supporters described him as a benefactor and offered prayers for his success in the forthcoming party primaries.